The Secret Commonwealth by Philip Pullman
The Secret Commonwealth is a fantasy novel and the second volume of Philip Pullman’s planned trilogy, The Book of Dust. The story is set twenty years after the events of La Belle Sauvage and ten years after the conclusion of the His Dark Materials trilogy.
The book features Lyra Silvertongue as a twenty-year-old undergraduate, travelling to Central Asia via the Levant. Lyra investigates a murder case with Malcolm Polstead. In search of a town haunted by dæmons and the mystery behind Dust, Lyra faces adult concerns and new complexities in her relationship with Pantalaimon.
What I Liked
I love all things His Dark Materials, Lyra, and Philip Pullman.
What I Did Not Like
I…kind of wish he hadn’t expanded the original trilogy.
The Secret Commonwealth by Philip Pullman
$21.66
In The Secret Commonwealth, Philip Pullman takes us back into the world of Lyra Silvertongue, now a twenty-year-old college student navigating adult life and a murder mystery. The book picks up twenty years after La Belle Sauvage and dives into themes of identity and relationships, particularly Lyra's evolving bond with her dæmon, Pantalaimon. I really enjoyed revisiting this universe and Lyra's character, but I can’t shake the feeling that expanding the original trilogy might not have been necessary. Overall, it's a solid read, but it left me questioning if we needed more of Lyra's journey.
Pros:
- I love all things His Dark Materials.
- Lyra is a compelling character.
- Philip Pullman's writing is engaging.
Cons:
- I kind of wish he hadn't expanded the original trilogy.
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 06:32 pm GMT
